A Field Study on Obesity and Thinness Cases among Children and Adults in the Al-Khums, Al-Qarabuli and Qasr Al-Akhyar Areas

Abstract

Based on the general concept of obesity and its negative impact on an individual's physical and mental health, as well as its repercussions on society, which are increasing with technological advancements, and in contrast to underweight, which is a condition of being underweight and is a cause for concern due to the accompanying illnesses, a study was conducted on a large group of individuals attending Daroub Al-Salam Clinic, Al-Khums Diabetes Hospital, and Qasr Al-Akhyar Rural Hospital during the period 2012-2022. Survey data was collected from 50 children aged 3-17 years, all of whom suffered from obesity, and from 100 adults aged 1-65 years, of whom 69 suffered from morbid obesity and 31 from underweight, from both sexes. During the study period, and in cooperation with the aforementioned institutions, specific factors were investigated to understand, study, and analyze them after collecting this data through a questionnaire for children and another for adults. The results showed that male children are more prone to obesity than female children. Obesity in adults is attributed to several factors, including social habits, lack of physical activity, reliance on high-calorie diets, birth weight, and overeating. However, the situation differs in adults. Most obese individuals are female, due to gender-specific factors such as multiple pregnancies, breastfeeding, unhealthy diets, and lack of physical activity. For those underweight, genetics plays a primary role, along with hormonal imbalances. The study recommends maintaining a healthy weight, consuming a healthy, fiber-rich diet, adhering to regular mealtimes, avoiding eating in front of screens, maintaining physical activity, and following a dietary plan. For those with diabetes, maintaining balanced hormone levels is also crucial. Thus, obesity and underweight have become symbols of malnutrition, whether excessive or insufficient. This problem has been present in both high-income and very low-income countries and has become a significant global issue affecting both developed and developing nations. However, genetics plays a major role in the development of these conditions.